PIR picks contractor to rebuild Desert Line

Under the agreement, Watkins will provide needed reconstruction concurrent with the inspections provided by J.L. Patterson and Associates, which covers 57 bridges, 17 tunnels and approximately 70 miles of track, in compliance with PIR's agreement with the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System and PIR's plan to commence freight operations in 2014.

"The recent developments with J.L. Patterson and Watkins represent important steps toward effectuating an operational rail system on the Desert Line," said PIR President Donald Stoecklein.